A Cornish animal charity is encountering an unusual problem with its two newest residents.

The National Seal Sanctuary at Gweek recently took in Mika and Chaff, a pair of South African fur seals.

The two did know each other at their previous home but since the transfer to Cornwall they have become inseparable.

The devoted pair are so enamoured of each other staff are finding it hard to do training with them which helps vets carry out health checks on them.

Excited calls

"It's important that they are both taught some simple tricks like rolling over on command so that veterinary inspections can be carried out with ease," said Abi Nicholls, from the sanctuary.

Instead the amorous pair spend all day with each other swimming and playing and Chaff, the male, has begun uttering regular, excited calls which the sanctuary's experts believe is a clear sign of his affection for Mika.

"It's all pointing to the prospect of the splash of tiny flippers some time later this summer," said Ms Nicholls.